Estelle Bistro for Cosy Sunday Lunch

Estelle Bistro has garnered a huge reputation since the previous Estelle became essentially 2 restaurants in Northcote; Estelle Bistro and Estelle by Scott Pickett. From humble beginnings and a dream of Scott Pickett we have seen the trnasformation of Estelle to provide amazing food and service for the discerning diner. A lack of pretense, a sharp focus, and simply damn good food and wine, has been the key to success. Scott has been able to fashion his dream into a spectacular reality, notwithstanding he is also one of the owners of stellar Saint Crispin in Collingwood. Manager Shar Debney excels and brings her substantial charm and service excellence to this Melbourne icon.

For a cosy Sunday afternoon Estelle Bistro is the perfect, if not romantic, dining destination. Choose a la carte or an affordable 3 or 5 course menu. Image Credit: Estelle Bistro.

Estelle Bistro serves spectacular food at affordable prices. This John Dory, black rice and red wine seemed simple on the menu but showed loads of technique, with the John Dory cooked perfectly.

We engage with Estelle Bistro having recently read Scott Pickett's book "A Cook's Story". Scott Pickett began his career at the age of 14 in a winery restaurant and did his apprenticeship with two notable Adelaide chefs. He has learnt his craft with some of the greats – Phil Howard of The Square in London, Philippe Mouchel in Melbourne, and is now forging his unmistakable identity.

The white and black tiles from our previous visit for the book launch have now been replaced by exposed brick walls (image credit: Estelle Bistro)...

The Atlantic Salmon, Prawn and broad bean also excited. We note the trend to honour natural ingredients in the most imaginative way possible.

As mentioned previously, we're enjoying the European influences in Northcote, with Scott Pickett transforming it into some sort of Northcotes Du Rhone.

The World Loves Melbourne appreciates the philosophy on their website,

"Melbourne’s Northside has established a reputation as the go to destination for serious dining, and pioneer restaurant Estelle, three years since opening, is proving the staying power of the northern food movement.

Commencing with a small budget and just six tables, owner chef, Scott Pickett has humbly grown his establishment that now includes an upstairs private dining room for up to 24 guests and a newly renovated covered courtyard with additional seating.

The courtyard provides a verdant, open space for lunches, dinners and private functions, while the private dining room is elegantly decorated, perfect for corporate dinners and intimate events.

Estelle received a coveted Chef’s Hat in The Age Good Food Guide in its first year, and was also nominated for ‘Best New Restaurant’. Retaining its One Hat status every year since, Estelle has proved itself to be a valued addition to Melbourne’s vibrant food scene."

Estelle Bistro is one of the most desirous dining destinations in Melbourne. Highly recommended.